'Some progress' on Gaza ceasefire negotiations: Netanyahu

Ahram Online , Monday 23 Dec 2024

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that "some progress" had been made in ceasefire and captive-prisoner exchange negotiations.

Netanyahu
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. AFP

 

Netanyahu’s statements, however, remained vague as he did not want to reveal too much while speaking to Israeli lawmakers, arguing that the progress on the deal was “small.”

Netanyahu also highlighted the impact of Israel’s war on Gaza, Lebanon, and what he calls “Iran's axis of evil,” describing a shift in regional dynamics.

Turning to Yemen, Netanyahu confirmed recent Israeli strikes on Houthi targets and signalled that more attacks could follow. “These strikes are not the first, and I will tell you they will not be the last,” he said. 

Netanyahu dismissed the notion that peace with Arab countries depends on resolving the Palestinian conflict. “You have no idea what you are talking about,” he said, addressing opposition lawmakers.

“We brought about four historic peace agreements with the Abraham Accords. There will be more agreements,” he added.

“Our string of successes and victories inspires enormous appreciation in our region and throughout the world,” Netanyahu said. 

Netanyahu added that Israel’s campaign had eliminated key leadership figures across Hamas’ hierarchy. “They are staring at the elimination of their leaders in the first, second, and third echelons,” he said. 

Netanyahu also pointed to Iran as a primary focus. “We are not taking our eyes off Iran, which threatens to destroy us,” he said.

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